US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff called Russian President Vladimir Putin a "humanitarian" during peace talks over the conflict in Ukraine on October 21, commending him for the release of American citizen Stephen Hubbard.
The meeting, held to discuss how peace can be reached with Ukraine, began with Putin announcing the release of Hubbard from Russian detention. Witkoff praised the move, comparing Putin's efforts to those of US President Donald Trump.
Putin Praised Despite Continued Strikes
Witkoff told Putin: "You talk so much about my president, President Trump, being a humanitarian. You are a humanitarian also, sir, and I salute that, I commend you, and I thank you again."
The praise came despite continued strikes by Russian forces that have taken civilian lives. Russia invaded Ukraine and has slowly claimed land since 2014.
Stephen Hubbard's Release
Hubbard, a 74-year-old retired schoolteacher, was detained when Russian forces captured the city of Izyum in Kharkiv. The capture came two months into the full-scale invasion in 2022.
This is a breaking news story and is being constantly updated.
